Half Moon Caye National Monument was the first area to be included as part of the Belize National Park system back in the seventies. This is understandable as it is such a spectacular part of the world. It is part of the Lighthouse Reef Atoll, and is not far from the famous Great Blue Hole. In the past people were allowed to camp on the island but this is no longer permissible. There are a few things to do on the island but the most pleasurable has to be just lounging around on Half Moon Caye beach.

It is possible to get to Half Moon Caye from San Pedro or Belize City and there are a few day trip options. Some other nearby islands have resorts on them and so provide a fantastic base from which to explore Half Moon Caye or other parts of the Lighthouse Reef. Another option that people choose when visiting this area is to live on a yacht anchored nearby; spend the day on Half Moon Caye beach during the daytime and return to ship at night.

There are a few facilities available on Half Moon Caye including a visitor’s center on the beach. You will also find picnic tables and an observation tower. One of the most famous sights on the island is the lighthouse but visitors are encouraged to not attempt to climb this as it is unstable. The lighthouse was built back in the 1930s and is sill nice to look at; most visitors will snap a few pictures of this landmark.

The most famous inhabitants of the island are the Bobbies who stay here for most of the year. It is best not to come between August and November if you want to be sure of catching sight of this bird. The Boobies on the island differ from others that you will see elsewhere in the Caribbean because of their unique white coloring.

As well as the birds there are also many species of lizard to be found on the island. Many of these are unique to Half Moon Caye and this has only recently come to the attention of ecologists; it provides another reason why it is so important to protect the island.

Of course the main activity of visitors to Half Moon Caye is exploring the island. In recent years sign posts have been put up to make it easier for tourists to navigate the island. Birdwatchers will have plenty to keep them busy here and will likely be frustrated at only having a short time to explore the island. The less energetic might just prefer to have a picnic on Half Moon Caye beach.

Diving and snorkeling is also very popular around the island and you will find plenty of tour operators offering this option. The marine life is as exotic and diverse as what is found on the island. In fact further along the lighthouse reef you will find some of the most spectacular diving areas in the world.